Honest Chimaev says he earns more money outside the UFC and responds to fans.

Chimaev proudly displays the UFC belt. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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Khamzat Chimaev has returned to the spotlight after recently commenting on the criticism he has been receiving for his inactivity in the UFC. The fighter, one of the organization's most popular names, addressed the issue while discussing his routine outside the octagon, amidst demands from some fans for more fights.

Despite the pressure, the athlete made it clear that he is not bothered by the questioning. According to Chimaev, in an interview with 'Beyond The Win', his current phase goes beyond his performances inside the cage, since his consolidated image in the sport has guaranteed lucrative opportunities outside the UFC, reducing the impact of criticism about the lack of recent fights.

The fighter asserted that the visibility he has gained throughout his career is the main factor in this scenario. With global recognition, he indicated that he is able to capitalize on his fame in different ways, which, in practice, reduces his exclusive dependence on the purses offered by the organization.

“I make more money outside of the UFC, you know? Because of who I’ve become, Khamzat Chimaev . Wherever I go, people know me,” Chimaev said in an interview.

💸 Khamzat Chimaev “doesn't care” about fans criticizing him for inactivity as he makes more money outside of the UFC:

"I make more money. Like, out of the UFC, you know? Because who I became, you know, like Khamzat Chimaev . Wherever I go, the people know me."

🎥 Beyond The Win pic.twitter.com/gM1FFBCXob

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) April 6, 2026

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Khamzat Chimaev's MMA numbers

Undefeated in his career, Khamzat Chimaev has 15 wins in his professional record. The Russian is the current Ultimate middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg), having dethroned Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 last August, which was also his last fight. Now, 'The Wolf' returns to the octagon against Sean Sctrickland, his declared rival, on May 9th in New Jersey (USA).

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